From the Sept. 5, 1912 edition of the Vineyard Gazette:
Governor’s day at Oak Bluffs, a whiff of icebergs blowing across the Island and summer flannels discarded for overcoats. Such was the cool reception to Governor Foss at the Vineyard Friday. This year the day had been postposed two weeks in expectation of President Taft’s visit, and the crowd had dwindled. But all who were there, and they were thousands, turned out.
The Governor sprung a surprise on those who sought to accompany him down on the boat arriving at Oak Bluffs at 4:20 p.m., by taking the morning boat for Nantucket, where he and the harbor and land commission investigated the conditions in the harbor. At Nantucket he was royally welcomed, whistles, bells and an immense crowd joined in greeting his first visit there in 25 years.
He returned from Nantucket on the boat arriving at Oak Bluffs at 3:40 p.m. In the Governor’s party were Maj. Robert E. Greene and Capt. Henry D. Crowley of his staff; Hon. Thomas C. Thacher of Yarmouth; Daniel J. Kiley, secretary of the harbor and land commission; William S. McNary, chairman of the harbor and land commission, and Judge Chas. C. Paine, also of the harbor and land commission. They were met at the wharf by President Upham of the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, Dr. Frank Parkin, and Herbert M. Chase of the Wesley House, and by many prominent citizens of Oak Bluffs.
The party, increased by State Auditor John E. White, State Senator Edric Eldridge, Representative Wm. J. Look of Dukes County and others, went by automobiles through the resort, and were enthusiastically received, and to Edgartown, where the governor held a brief reception at the Home Club.
The party motored through Vineyard Haven, and enjoyed the ride through that charming village, and at 7:45 o’clock the governor’s party marched from the Wesley House to the Methodist Tabernacle where the main event of the day was held. The usual illumination made the park a dancing fairy land of particolored lanterns, but the inclement gusts of wind entirely did away with the gay summer gowns and flannels that go to make up the usual gala time picture at the Bluffs. The entire audience — the tabernacle was crowded to the limit, though the overflow was not as great as usual - rose as the governor entered. The band tendered a selection.
Rev. Micah J. Talbot offered prayer. Speeches of welcome were made by Dr. Upham for the association, Dr. Frank Parkin of Philadelphia, and Rev. Dr. David W. Downey. On the platform with the governor were many prominent citizens of the Bluffs. Besides the officers of the association were Iram N. Smith of Fall River, S. H. Bailey of Providence, J. E. Bridgeford of Yarmouth, Thomas C. Thacher, Winthrop Tuttle of Brooklyn, Dr. William V. Kelley, H. N. Pease, and F. A. Marshall of Oak Bluffs and Judge C. G. M. Dunham of Edgartown.
Governor Foss’ speech was brief. Said he: “I venture to prophesy as I did last year that I will be with you once again.” This was applauded heartily, though the Republican element on the platform was observed to smile. The governor touched on the great work that Massachusetts is doing in leading the legislation of the country in modern movements; told of his plans for better roads, and the continued work of the harbor and land commission. Speaking of the high cost of living, he laid much of it at the door of cost of transportation. As to woman suffrage, the governor advised leaving it to a state referendum.
After the speeches the governor was given the Chautauqua salute and then shook hands with many people. After the last of the long line had filed by, the governor’s party adjourned to the Wesley House, where a banquet was served.
A few brief after-dinner speeches were made by Major Greene, Judge E. G. Eldridge, Dr. Upham and Governor Foss. The governor returned to the mainland on the 6:10 Saturday morning boat, taking the train at Woods Hole for Boston.
A perfect day, a “well groomed” field, and a large and enthusiastic audience marked the Second Annual Field Day of the Edgartown Carol Club.
There were many and varied events, including the usual races and several novelties. The obstacle races were particularly amusing. The Costume, Egg and Spoon, and Cup races, proved most interesting. The number of races was doubled owing to the large number of entries and a double number of prizes were awarded the extra winners.
The last race was awaited with much curiosity as it was announced on the program as a ??? race. At 5:30 p.m., a pig, a duck and a chicken were placed in the middle of the field, and twenty or more stalwart fellows put forth their best efforts to secure one of the prizes.
The Carol Club extends to all its thanks and appreciation for the generous and liberal patronage.
The proceeds of the tag and field day go to the fund which has been started for the erection of a gymnasium building in Edgartown.
Compiled by Hilary Wallcox
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